Creating A Union Of Purpose

Our Towns

South Windsor

November 13, 2002

A collaboration between South Windsor and the privately run Wood Memorial Library on a cultural arts center at Union School is appealing. But the town council should proceed carefully in this discussion.

Conceptually, the idea has merit. Wood needs to expand. The town needs to figure out what to do with Union School. The council has charged the public building commission to collaborate with Wood on a study to see if the building could be used jointly.

The school, which is next door to Wood, needs a lot of work. But there's no question it should be preserved. It's an important symbol on a historic street.

Old Main Street is the perfect location. It is lined with historic homes. At one end is the East Windsor Hill post office, built in 1757. The old Bissell Ferry crossing is also there. In this history-savvy community, there should be enthusiasm for preserving South Windsor's past.

The still unknown cost is the troubling part. Wood, a private, nonprofit organization, might be able to get grants not available to a municipality. The project might be doable without taxpayers' money. But the town would probably be responsible for operating expenses.

There are plenty of possibilities for the building's use. A local history museum is one. Any small museum is a tricky proposition. Most don't generate much interest or revenue. Officials should learn about other towns' experiences before investing in this idea.

Still, Wood is a high-profile organization that is considered as much a cultural group as a library. Its concerts are often standing room only. If any building could draw additional interest, Wood Memorial could.

Having a day care facility in Union School has allowed the town to postpone plans for its future. But time's up. The lease is expiring.

If the study can reveal a realistic plan, South Windsor could end up with another reason to be proud of its history.